ANN ARBOR, MI - The current national focus on the potential risks and benefits of antidepressant medicines is raising Americans' awareness of the dark reality faced by many children, teens and adults who grapple with depression and suicidal thoughts every day. And anyone who has ever lost a loved one to suicide knows that effective help for depression, without downsides, is often hard to find.

In a timely coincidence, a unique benefit walk on Sunday, Sept. 26 will raise money for efforts to prevent suicide and educate the public about depression and its link to suicide. Sponsored by the University of Michigan Depression Center and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, the event is the third annual “Out of the Darkness... Into the Light” walk.

The walk is open to anyone, but may be especially important for anyone who has dealt with depression in themselves, a family member or friend, and to those who have lost someone to suicide.

In addition to a 3.5-mile walk through Ann Arbor streets and the U-M campus, the event will feature speakers, information tables, face painting, free massages, live music, delicious baked goods, free educational materials, and a “Why I Walked” message board that lets walkers express their reasons for participating.

“Early detection and treatment of depression can prevent suicide,” says walk co-organizer Tammy Landry, of the Ann Arbor Chapter of AFSP. “We can't afford to lose another life, or to let people suffer in darkness because they don't recognize or can't get adequate help for their depression. We need to bring this important health issue out of the darkness and into the light.”

Landry, who lost her father to suicide, hopes this year's event tops the success of last year's walk, which attracted 400 participants. She explains that proceeds from the walk will fund depression education and suicide prevention programs in the community, including free support groups and a workshop series for families.

Registration for the walk begins at 9 a.m. at Pioneer High School , on the corner of S. Main St. and W. Stadium Blvd. in Ann Arbor. The walk will begin at 10 a.m.

The cost to register will be $25 for adults, $10 for students. Children under 12 can walk for free. Strollers and dogs on leashes are welcome. Walkers are encouraged to collect donations; prizes will be awarded to those who raise $150 or more. Advance registration is available online at www.depressioncenter.org. For more information or to volunteer, e-mail tlandry@afspaa.org.

Contact: Kara Gavin

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